newcomer’s Guide

GPO 101: Your Questions Answered

The GPO is one of only a few orchestras in the United States today to reach the elite status of operating for over a century. It shares this accomplishment in cities much larger than ours. The GPO believes that the quest for beautiful music was a hallmark of those who settled our area, and so it remains today.

Want to learn more about the history of the GPO? Visit the About page.

If you’re visiting this page, it probably means you’re thinking about joining us for a concert, and we’re thrilled about that. Live symphonic music can seem daunting to some first-time concertgoers, but there’s no reason to stress. Here are some frequently asked questions about philharmonic concerts, intended to help make your first visit to the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra fun and memorable.

Have a question that’s not answered here? Send us an email, and we might even add the question to this list.

What is symphonic music?

The term “symphonic music” covers a wide range of musical styles spanning hundreds of years, from a Bach concerto to a Brahms rhapsody, from music written for film to video games. Generally, symphonic music is played by an ensemble comprised of strings (violins, violas, cellos, and basses), woodwinds (clarinets, oboes, flutes, and bassoons), brass (trumpets, horns, trombones, and tubas), and percussion (timpani, drums, xylophones, and bells), or some combination of these instruments. Stylistically, symphonic music has in incredibly wide range from classical to modern music.

Will I recognize any of the music?

You’ll probably recognize at least one piece on each of our concerts from some popular culture. Many of today’s popular songs, television shows, and movies use or are based on classical themes.

What should I wear to a GPO concert?

Contrary to what many people think, formal attire like tuxedos and evening gowns are not required. They aren’t even the norm! Most concertgoers wear business or cocktail attire, but you’ll see everything from jeans and khakis to jackets and sweaters. The name of the game is comfort. First and foremost we want you to enjoy the music.

When should I clap?

We want you to clap if you hear something you really liked. But generally, the audience claps after a piece is finished. Typically, they hold their applause for multi-movement works until the very end, too. For example, if you’re listening to Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, which has four movements, the time that people usually clap is after the last movement. Check your program to find out how many movements there are in a piece. Usually there is a short pause between movements. So, in the case of Beethoven’s No. 3, you know you’re hearing the last movement after three pauses. If you’re unsure, you can wait for the rest of the audience to clap before you join in.

What if I am late?

For the comfort and enjoyment of our musicians and patrons, late seating takes place during pauses in the program. If you’re not sure when that is, just ask an usher. If you do arrive late you can view the concert on screens in the lobby, and you’ll hear the music as well.

Can I bring food or drinks into the concert?

Any drink purchased at the lobby bar is welcome. Food is not allowed in the concert hall and most outside drinks will not be permitted.

Can I study up on the pieces before the show?

The Greeley Philharmonic website has program notes for certain pieces, as well as links to additional listening’s and readings under the current season’s tab. You can also read about each concert in the program book.

Can I take pictures?

Usually, photography without flash is allowed. Listen for any announcements at the beginning of the concert.

What does the orchestra do before the concert?

The orchestra typically has several rehearsals to polish the show, including the music you hear and the lights and movement you might see. In the hours before a concert, they might have dinner or relax before the show, just like an audience member.

What should the audience do at the beginning of the concert?

Before the show begins is a great time to use the restroom, grab a program, and find your seat. In the program is information about the performance that you can read about while you wait!

Who is the concertmaster and what do they do?

The concertmaster is the first chair violinist. They help tune the orchestra before a performance. They also work closely with the conductor in managing the orchestra.

What should I do with my cell phone?

It is typically asked to silence or turn off your cell phone before the show. Similar to the movies, a phone can be distracting to other audience members.

Can I bring my children?

Any child over the age of 3 is welcome! All GPO concerts are appropriate for all ages.

Why is there an intermission and what should I do during it?

Intermissions are to give the audience- and musicians- a break. This is a great time to use the restroom, grab a snack, a stretch out! Most intermissions will be 15 minutes long.

How early should I arrive?

Generally you want to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before the performance, This gives you time to use the restroom, find your seat, and grab a drink before the show begins.

What can I do before a concert?

Downtown Greeley has many restaurants and bars you can go to before a show. Lincoln Park is also a great place to walk around since its only a short walk from the performance hall!

*please visit individual concert event pages for information on whether a pre-concert talk will be held